The Hockeyroos Today
After two successive Olympic campaigns without a medal, the Hockeyroos are currently going through a transition period and are currently ranked 6th in the world.
The Hockeyroos were extremely unlucky not to have advanced to the semifinals of the 2008 Beijing Olympics after finishing the rounds on 10 points, the same as China to finish second on the pool table. However, a slightly better goal difference to China saw them advance instead of Australia – this was the first time a team had finished on 10 points but not advance to the finals at an Olympic Games.
Following this a number of players retired, however a core group of experienced players such as captain Madonna Blyth, Casey Eastham and Kobie McGurk still remain, with these players quickly becoming leaders of what is now quite a young team. After finishing fifth at the 2010 World Cup the Hockeyroos bounced back a few weeks later at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, defeating New Zealand in the final to win their third gold medal.
Following this tournament coach Frank Murray announced his retirement. Murray was replaced by former Kookaburra Adam Commens in November 2010.
Although the team is young they are also extremely talented, and looking forward to creating their own history as the team heads confidently towards the 2012 London Olympics. They recently won the inaugural International Super Series in Perth, playing against India and Malaysia in a modified 9-a-side format.
Read more about this topic: Australia Women's National Field Hockey Team
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